Megasonic-Intense

Mausoleum Records
2014

Megasonic is a Belgian-based trio whose influences include the likes of Van Halen, Ozzy, Aerosmith, Saxon, Savatage, Whitesnake, Metallica, UFO, Iron Maiden, BLS and Alter Bridge. Add that all together and you end up with a band that is part classic hard rock and melodic heavy metal with a few symphonic rock and progressive metal flourishes. The band, which is made up of lead vocalist/keyboardist/drummer Dimitri Verhoeven, guitarist/keyboardist Jeroen De Bock and guitarist/bassist Lieven De Wolf, is only a few years old from the looks of it with the thirteen track "Intense" serving as their debut outing. With eleven original compositions and two covers (Paul Gilbert´s "Down to Mexico" and ABBA´s "Does Your Mother Know") "Intense" is a solid (if unspectacular) release. There are some inspired moments such as "Demon's  Lust", "Witches  Brew" and "Future Shock" (three tracks which incidentally run one right after another with "Future Shock" the best of the three) as well as "Eye Of The Storm" and  "Run  For  Cover". But then you've got a real clunker like "Man  In  The  Moon" (a tiring ballad which is just lame) and other numbers that are merely so-so ("Bombs Away", which comes across as part Van Halen and part Riot is so close to being good that's it's discouraging!). The two covers end the album with "Down to Mexico" likely chosen to pull in guitar rock fans and ABBA´s "Does Your Mother Know" serving as more of a novelty then anything else. For Megasonic an album like "Intense" is a good starting point as it does feature some highlights ("Future Shock", which arguably is the heaviest number here, is a nice little banger all it's own!) and it paints the picture of a band with much more to offer if given time.

VeraEuridice-VeraEuridice

Atomic Stuff
2014

VeraEuridice is an Italian rock/symphonic metal project from guitarist/vocalist Fabrizio Sassi. On this self-titled 6-track EP the lyrical direction revolves around the story of Orpheus’s journey to the underworld to bring back the beautiful Eurydice. Or rather it revolves around what happened (or may have happened) prior to that event to cause Orpheus to look back at Eurydice (which was the one thing he was not supposed to do, but you know how that goes!). VeraEuridice, which delivers it's crisp, clean, clear and delightfully engaging sound in it's native language, also features the vocal talents of Maura Nardelli and Laura Scotti with Giorgio Terenziani (bass), Mauro Desideri (keyboards, orchestrations) and Paco (drums) rounding out the fold. While one would be hard pressed to deliver relative band examples (ie: who exactly they sound like, English-wise, as comparisons) that is be no means a bad thing! If anything it just shows that this (female-fronted) Italian project is staying true to itself and that "VeraEuridice", with additional heavy metal moments only adding to the overall appeal of this EP, serves it's purpose well (that being a more then proper introduction to a scene that may not have any shortage of symphonic-enhanced rock/metal outfits, but can and will always welcome more in especially creative ones such as VeraEuridice which seem to serve a more divine purpose!). Other then the language barrier (which is not really much of a barrier, but should nonetheless be noted) there's nothing remotely wrong with recommending a new act like Italy's VeraEuridice to those that enjoy classical-inspired rock and metal. As this EP serves as but a taste of what Fabrizio Sassi and his guests have to offer it will be worth waiting patently to hear what this project ends up serving us for the main course! 

Darkyra Black-Dragon Tears

Self-Release/Independent
2014

Prior to clicking on this promo I had no idea what to expect. Who or what is Darkyra Black? If I was to simply go by the artwork then I'd probably be guessing something akin to a gothic Duran Duran! As it turns out the gothic part is correct, but the Duran Duran part for like a thousand miles off! For it seems that Darkyra Black, an absolutely stunning beauty(!), is an Australian symphonic metal singer and "Dragon Tears" is the debut offering of Darkyra Black. Make sense so far? Besides the lovely Darkyra Black, whose voice is every bit as sultry and seductive as it is powerful and engaging, the band features drummer Garry King (Jeff Beck, Joe Lynn Turner, Ian Parry) of power metal outfit Achillea, guitarists Betovani Denelli and Paul Jupe (Achillea), bassist Colin Haynes (Achillea) and keyboardest Fab Jablonski (Achillea). As Darkyra Black has provided backing vocals for Achillea it makes sense that all of these members of said symphonic metal/power metal act lend a helping hand on her debut album. Oh, and not only is it a debut album, but It's also a concept album based on a "Gothic interpretation of a geisha like tale that ends in tragedy. Love, loss, lust, betrayal and revenge." Naturally anytime a young act attempts to tackle a concept album there are numerous risks involved. But for a new act to tackle one on their debut recording? That's pretty bold right? To Darkyra Black's credit "Dragon Tears" is a pretty solid undertaking. I've never heard Achillea myself, but I would imagine that some of that band's same symphonic metal and power metal elements show up on this debut album along with generous helpings of  gothic rock, traditional heavy metal, melodic hard rock, epic metal and even progressive rock! In their words the music is "dark, passionate and edgy" and I'd say that that about covers "Dragon Tears"! No, but really this music is dark and a bit mysterious and thanks to some solid guest musicians (George Boussounis-additional keyboards/samples/arrangement, Michael Porfyris -cello, Ilias Sdoukos -viola, Laertis Kokolanis - violin) "Dragon Tears" is different...in a good way! Along with Achillea influences are listed on her Facebook as being Tarja, Edenbridge, Dio, Kate Bush and Nightwish although I'd add in Amy Lee of Evanescence fame as well when it comes to Darkyra Black. If goth-tinged symphonic/melodic power metal with strong female vocals and heavy rock guitars sounds promising to you then "Dragon Tears" is worth checking out. I'll admit I wasn't expecting to like this one as much as I did, but between the skilled musicians involved and Darkyra's enticing vocals this one was easy enough to get caught up in! Solid as a rock for a debut recording, and a concept album to boot(!), "Dragon Tears" is a good start for this Australian vocalist who, with time and some luck, should evolve into a more recognizable name.

Rhapsody Of Fire-Dark Wings Of Steel

AFM Records
2013

Not that it's a shocking revelation by any stretch of the imagination, but I'm not totally sold on the whole symphonic power metal scene. It's far from my favorite form of metal and I really dragged my feet getting around to this release. While I had never heard a whole full-length release from this Italian band I'm at least somewhat familiar with their sound thanks album samplers, compilations and (from years back) Sirius satellite radio. Still, I went in with an open mind and decided to just let the chips fall where they would. After a bit of research I discovered that this is the tenth full-length studio album from Rhapsody Of Fire and the first not to feature guitarist and founding member Luca Turilli. For fans of Rhapsody Of Fire (ROF for short from here on out) this has caused great distress as he appears to have been one of the group's chief song-writers as well as the individual who brought neoclassical influences to the band. Now, there is a ton of back-story to his departure and the history behind this band (which was initially formed as Thundercross in 1993 before taking the name Rhapsody in 1995 and then changing to Rhapsody Of Fire in 2006!) is quite long and varied. For fans of ROF there's simply no need to retread all of it. And for those of you who might be new to the group? Well, I'll leave that as homework as there are plenty of legitimate sites online where you can read all about the band's back-story and the many twists and turns that have taken place for this Italian band over the passing years (as well as the various side-projects that have sprung to life as a result). For now let's just look at this album and see if the sinister artwork up front (with the cool englossed dragon's head!) matches the actual music that lies in wait under the covers. With Luca Turilli having left the band the musical compositions now fall on keyboardest Alex Staropoli and his brother Manuel (guesting on this album with the Baroque flute, Baroque Oboe, Recorder and Duduk) while the lyrics were written by lead vocalist Fabio Lione (Angra, Hollow Haze, Vision Divine, ex-Symmetry, ex-Labÿrinth, ex-Kamelot (live), ex-Athena and ex-J. Storm). Besides Alex Staropoli and Fabio Lione, who both excel in their individual posisitions within ROF, the other current full-time members of the band are guitarist Roberto De Micheli (Sinestesia, ex-Steel Crown, ex-Thundercross) and the extremely talented Holzwarth brothers-bassist Oliver (Pergana, ex-Sieges Even, ex-Coldseed, ex-Looking-Glass-Self, ex-Sodom, ex-Val'Paraiso, Brutal Godz, ex-Paradox, ex-Blind Guardian (live), ex-Chinchilla (live), ex-Leaves' Eyes (live), ex-Tarja (live), ex-Demons & Wizards (live), ex-Power Quest) and drummer Alex (Dol Ammad, Pergana, ex-Sieges Even, ex-Looking-Glass-Self, ex-Val'Paraiso, Brutal Godz, ex-Blind Guardian (live), ex-Avantasia, ex-Luca Turilli's Rhapsody, ex-Paradox). By looking over the list of players involved with "Dark Wings Of Steel" it would be fairly accurate to say that there is a shit-load of experience here. In fact, there is an overabundance of talent to be found within this band so that's one point of topic we really do not need to spend an exorbitant amount of time on. Instead let's focus our attention on the actual music and what makes an album like this both inspiring and not so inspiring. As is apparently the case with most ROF albums this one features the use of real string instruments and a full orchestra. That certainly gives "Dark Wings Of Steel" a grand feeling and creates an overall epic vibe. Granted it's more of a dark, almost melancholy, vibe but it's epic nonetheless! Also, the band employees a small choir (which was scored by Vito Lo Ré) which adds to the sweeping nature of a release like this. These small elements, which are probably fairly atypical in regards to symphonic power metal, do add to the overall listening experience of an album like "Dark Wings Of Steel". Especially when it's just you, a quiet room and a comfortable pair of headphones! That said I'm not sure how to feel about these elements in regards to an album like this. I'm usually of the mindset that classical music and classic heavy metal shouldn't mix. While I love both it's just not a combination I enjoy together. It's similar to how I love bacon and love chocolate. Both a great, but do they really need to be mixed? Here though I felt as if the band's attempt to enhance the more metallic nature of their music helped keep things flowing. For a band that was apparently also known for adding neoclassical elements to their sound-scape with album number ten it sure sounds as if the band is looking to make a drastic change towards more of a even-keeled, traditional power metal style. ROF doesn't always pull it off, but even when they fail they still come off as a band that is trying to make the most of their new line-up and new direction. Tracks like "Rising From Tragic Flames", "Angel Of Light", "Tears Of Pain", "Fly To Crystal Skies" and "A Tale Of Magic" are more power metal then symphonic power metal so while it might just turn off fans of old (which would be understandable) new listeners could likely take their place. Is it an album I'd suggest for your everyday power metal fan though? Likely not. Truthfully there might not be enough "punch" to entice fans of good, old-fashioned power metal into trying out "Dark Wings Of Steel". Still, I like the effort here and how the band makes the most of what could have been an utter disaster (guitarist and founding member Luca Turilli leaving the band and all). It will be interesting to see where a band like ROF goes from here.

Oceans Of Time-"Show Me The Way" Single

Melodic Revolution Records
2013

Here's another example of why it's so important to take a quick glance at your junk mail before deleting everything. Chances are I'd have missed out on this Norwegian act if I hadn't decided to take a second look at everything that had piled up. That would have been a shame as the melodic Oceans of Time, which I would assume choose their moniker from Axel Rudi Pell's album of the same name, are quite good at what they do. And what is it they do exactly? Besides offering up melodic material that is. Well, even if symphonic progressive metal isn't exactly my poison of choice, these gentlemen have a (admittedly) catchy single on their hands with "Show Me The Way" and man, if I didn't go back and play this one a couple more times I'd be lying! Formed in 2005 by guitarist Lazz Jensen, whose playing tempts the listener to move in closer, the band is fronted quite effectively by the equally-talented Ken Lyngfoss. Other then this newish single the group also have the full-length album "Faces" to their name. Having shared the stage with the likes of Glenn Hughes, Masterplan and Satyricon (to name just a few) this is one act that could make a nice splash on the scene with a little bit of luck and more hard work. Considering how Oceans Of Time spent 2005 to 2008 just playing out and honing their craft I'd argue that they have the hard work part locked down pat. So, it's more a matter of luck and the continual word-of-mouth for this bunch although you'd think that their musical talent and obvious ability to write compelling material alone would open more doors. Time will tell I guess. Thing thing is Oceans Of Time, which is rounded out by bassist Geir Nilsen, keyboardist Daniel Myhr (Civil War, ex-Sabaton) and drummer Nicolay Ryen Christiansen, sure does sound as if they have the drive and determination to easily go the long haul. No doubt this isn't the last we've heard from this Norwegian act as I'm sure they have a lot more to offer for fans of symphonic and progressive metal. You can find out more about this band at the link below as well as hear the single for yourself.

http://melodicrevolutionrecords.com/track/show-me-the-way

Tarja-Colours In The Dark

Armoury
2013

 
There is irony to be found in the the title of the latest work from former Nightwish member Tarja. This 10-track release (or 12-track if you opt for the iTune's version of the album) is hardly what one would call "colorful". Mixed and mastered by Tim Palmer (Pearl Jam, U2) in Austin, Texas (who did a phenomenal job all around) Tarja's forth full-length solo LP, which is actually my first experience with this Finnish soprano, comes across as more of a darkly-tinged release then the overly colorful (and frankly a tad bit obnoxious) album art work might suggest. On her new album, which clocks in at just over 1 hour (without the 2 bonus iTune tracks!) the beautiful Tara indulges in both symphonic metal and heavy rock. From reading up on her older albums, including Metal Mark's review of her 2008 album, "My Winter Storm", I get the sense that this is the general direction she wants her music to go and, as it obviously works so well, I say kudos to her for taking on what can be a daunting endeavor. It's not like your regular Joe or Jane metal fanatic (or at least not the bulk of metal fans and collectors that I personally know) automatically embraces .things like orchestra and choir arrangements with open arms. In order to make something like this work (if you want it to appeal to more then just your niche fan-base) you're going to need for the material at hand to reach out towards the listener before pulling them back in by their emotional coattails. To that extent this 10-track release does a good job of making you feel as if you are a part of the album. That is achieved through it's many different emotional layers and it's beautifully assembled movements. And of course it doesn't hurt any that Tarja has such a provocative voice to begin with that it easily makes this atmospheric LP all the more intriguing! She most certainly enchants the listener as she gracefully tip toes through the musical equivalent of a fully loaded minefield. Even as I'm not usually into this kind of symphonic metal (it's just not my cup of tea) this proved to be one of those cases where the emotional appeal (and substantial grandiose nature) of  "Colours In The Dark" were too much to simply ignore. 

CHTHONIC-Bú-Tik

Spinefarm US
2013

This album-art caught my eye when it was first spied in the pages of Metal Hammer magazine. When it showed up in my promo gallery then I was drawn to it and what was purported to be a different, reasonably unique, listening experience. Reality is far too often different then what is promised by a small bi-line or two under a picture. We've all experienced that so there's no sense in complaining about it right? This is actually the seventh studio release from this Taiwanese metal outfit. Self-described as symphonic "orient metal" what we really have is extreme metal with a oriental twist. Perhaps I expected something more earth-shattering out of CHTHONIC and that's why I'm underwhelmed. In my heart I over-reached, in anticipation of the release, for damn near perfection and it was a case of nothing being able to live up to what I imagied this would sound like. That's truly the wrong approach on my part (or was the wrong approach) which is why I listned to this album on two separate occasions. What I found was sadly the same think twice. It's not like the band (Freddy Lim – vocals/erhu, Jesse Liu – guitar/backing vocals, Doris Yeh – bass/backing vocals, CJ Kao – keys and Dani Wang – drums) do anything wrong here. In fact it's far from it as these musicians know their stuff and then some. That much rang through on both listens. The music on display here is quite different from the bulk of extreme metal floating out there as it's not just the oriental flavor that elevates this album, but the addition of European-styled power metal/better-then-usual symphonic metal and traditional heavy metal puts this act towards the top of the heap. So, from a music perspective this is some no-nonsense excellent extreme metal. For me, and my ears and heart, that just wasn't enough. The fact that I kept coming back to was, while these tracks all sound really well-crafted and perfectly-executed, they lacked distinction track-by-track and the hype that preceded this album made it near-impossible for someone like me to find true satisfaction. That's all on me though and I'm nearly certain that others will experience this album in a better light.
 
http://www.chthonic.org
http://www.facebook.com/chthonic
http://spinefarmrecords.com/usa
http://www.facebook.com/SpinefarmRecordsUS
http://www.twitter.com/SpinefarmUS

Edge of Attack-Edge of Attack

Spread The Metal Records
2013

When reviewing new acts it's always best to leave your expectations at the door. As nothing excites me more then then the phrase "female-fronted power/thrash" (Yes, I do live a pretty boring life it seems) I was really psyched about the potential of Edge Of attack. Truth be told this was one of those rare cases where the actual product didn't meet what I had pictured in my mind (Not the rare part as this happens more often then not with over-hyped new bands), but it offered more then it's fair share of surprises and I found myself glad that Edge Of Attack were not what I had in mind. If there's one thing to be said for this 5-piece band it's that they don't try to fit into any kind of well-defined categories. Now, please bear with me while I try to make an argument for the addition of symphonic arrangements into power metal/thrash. If that doesn't make a lot of sense coming from me, since the sound of symphonic power metal usually makes me want to rip my ears off, the additional arrangements give Edge of Attack a unique personality. What could have been a utter disaster, adding choral and symphonic arrangements into good power metal/thrash when it's not needed, turns into an advantage as it gives the band a chance to showcases not only the musician's skill, but also the intense lead vocals of Roxanne Gordey. By itself good power metal (Of the American variety)/thrash is a hard thing to come by let alone one fronted by such a talented female vocals. Roxanne Gordy manages to offer the listener haunting vocals that fit in perfectly with the complex metal on display. Again, not to surprise anyone here, but even the shred metal on display here is rather enjoyable. The band manages to play some slick guitar solos, or rather lead guitarist Jurekk Whipple does, without turning Edge of Attack into anything so flashy as to take away the overall appeal of their furious power metal and thunderous thrash moments. For a band that hail's from the frigid Northern lands of Alberta, Grande Prairie to be exact, they sure do manage to play some hot metal! There's not much overall information to go by when it comes to this five-piece band, like when they formed and other curious tidbits of information, but from the sounds of it they must still be a fairly young outfit. Even so, Edge of Attack have been featured in Revolver magazine and have played pre-shows for Kiss and Godsmack. Not to shabby at all. And, seeing as the band handled this self-titled album by themselves (It was produced by guitarist/vocalist Jurekk Whipple), the production job is all the more impressive!  I can't say anymore good things about this band that haven't already been said and I really am glad that they proved to be more then simply power/thrash. This is a really good metal album and I'm hoping we'll see more out of this band in the near future.

Left to right: Dallas Dyck (Rhythm guitar), Roxanne Gordey (Vocals), Jurekk Whipple (Lead guitar, vocals), Denver Whipple (Bass), Trevor Swain (Drums) | Photo credit: Alicia Beisel Photography